Smiley Days

Menstruation is an integral and normal part of female life, indeed of human existence. Menstrual hygiene is fundamental to the dignity
and wellbeing of women and girls and an important part of basic hygiene, sanitation and reproductive health services to which every woman
and girl has a right.

There are over 355 million menstruating women and girls in India, but millions of women across the country still face significant
barriers to a comfortable and dignified experience with menstrual hygiene management (MHM). Taboos and myths about menstruation impact
girls' and women's emotional state, mental and physical health as well as lifestyle. The challenge of addressing the socio-cultural
taboos and beliefs about menstruation is further compounded by ignorance about puberty, menstruation and reproductive health.

Over 77% of menstruating girls and women in India use an old cloth, which is often reused without proper disinfection. Furthermore,
88% of women in India resort to using ashes, newspapers, dried leaves and husk sand to aid absorption. Lack of openness about menstruation
makes them believe in the above ideologies, which has the following implications:

Through the Smiley Days project, IDF helps adolescent girls and young women in overcoming the social barriers associated with menstruation
and sensitize them towards KNOW YOUR BODY (Puberty stage), Menarche, Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) & Sexual Reproductive Health Rights
(SRHR). By providing them with the right information, products and facilities, we will ensure an equal opportunity for girls across India;
it also contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals 5 and 3 and its corresponding targets 5.6 and 3.7 respectively.